Dodgers: Kristopher Negrón pleasantly surprises as the newest addition

The Dodgers acquired Kristopher Negrón just hoping he would serve as a capable backup until Hernandez and Taylor returned. Negrón has done that and more.

The Dodgers have been on a continuous hot streak as they are coming off a three-game sweep of the Cardinals. As they head into a series with the Diamondbacks, one name in the lineup is unexpectedly standing out. Kristopher Negrón has been a pleasant surprise over the last few weeks, as he has brought a hot bat and provided some versatile defense.

Negrón was part of the small trade deadline moves that the Dodgers front office made, one that was not expected by fans as the team was in need of a decent relief pitcher. However, Negrón has changed many minds with his impressive start with LA.

Prior to his stint with the Dodgers, Negrón had only appeared in 10 games in 2019, all with the Seattle Mariners. In those few games, he struggled quite a bit, as he hit .217 with an OPS of .497. With injuries to Chris Taylor and Kiké Hernández, the Dodgers brought in a piece that could play all over the field, as opposed to bringing someone up from the farm.

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Negrón made a quick turn around as he put on the Dodger blue. He recorded a hit in his first seven games with the team. Going into Friday’s contest, he has an average of .391 and an OPS of 1.069 since making his debut with the team.

Not only has he been consistent at the plate but he brings something the Dodgers have been missing with Hernández and Taylor on the IL, a utility player. Negrón can essentially play almost every position and has already played in five different ones with the Dodgers in his brief time with the team.

Although he is excelling right now, the looming issue is that he most likely will be designated for assignment when either player returns from the IL. Negrón may accept a demotion down to Oklahoma City in order to remain with the team, or, he can take his chances and try to sign with another team with the hopes of being in the big leagues.

Regardless of where Negrón ends up when everyone is healthy, he has made a successful impact on the team and a strong case as to why he could potentially help the team in the postseason.